Speculation of further relationship difficulties increased after last month’s Oscars, when The Social Network star decided to take his mum as his date.Biel joined Timberlake at the Vanity Fair afterparty, but the couple have now confirmed their split.

Justin fuelled rumours of a split by taking his mum as his Oscars date (Getty)

A spokesman for the couple said: ‘Addressing the media speculation regarding Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake ‘s relationship, we are confirming that they mutually have decided to part ways.

‘The two remain friends and continue to hold the highest level of love and respect for each other.’

The statement is almost identical to one issued by Justin Timberlake and ex Cameron Diaz when they split in 2007, which read: ‘It has always been our preference not to comment on the status of our relationship, but, out of respect for the time we’ve spent together, we feel compelled to do so now, in light of recent speculation and the number of inaccurate stories that are being reported by the media.

‘We have, in fact, ended our romantic relationship and have done so mutually and as friends, with continued love and respect for one another.’